Spreader

ABSTRACT

A spreader is disclosed for allowing a user to spread a spreadable food item.

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

This application is a continuation in part of U.S. Ser. No. 10/628,097filed Jul. 28, 2002 and U.S. Ser. No. 10/761,132, filed Jan. 20, 2004.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to flowable material spreaders for use onhand manipulatable dispensers, and more particularly to spreaders at thenozzle ends of such dispensers.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Spreadable foods are common table items and are enjoyed by many all overthe world. There are numerous types of foods that can be spread. Typicalspreadable foods include peanut butter, frosting, butter, mayonnaise,jelly, ice cream toppings, salad dressing and cream cheese and otheredible spreads for use on bread, crackers, and the like. Often, a butterknife, spatula, or other similar device is used to spread the food ontothe bread, cracker, or other item. However, these utensils can becomelost on or at outdoor celebrations and picnics, or other events, or needto repeatedly dip a spreader knife into a jar. Additionally, materialaccumulates on the knife and jar edges, as well as crumbs of othermaterials can accumulate in the jar.

A number of patents have issued related to food dispensers and the like.U.S. Pat. No. 5,377,874 discloses a liquid dispenser for dispensingfluid condiment materials, such as ketchup, mustard and mayonnaise aswell as other liquids such as medicated salves, lotions and ointments.The dispenser includes a tubular body with a spherical plunger elementconnected to a spreader paddle member disposed within a tubular body.Upon external manipulation of the tubular body, the spherical plungerand spreader paddle arrangement is urged toward a dispenser nozzle forrelease of condiment filling contained therein. The sanitary spreaderpaddle simultaneously protrudes from within the tubular body ascondiment filling is being evacuated. As a result, the user may evacuatethe entire volume of condiment filling within the dispenser as well asspread the deposited condiment filling on a food article to be eaten. Ina medical application of the invention, the dispenser includes anintegral applicator swab which is connected to the spreader paddle andresides within the plunger. The spreader paddle is separated from theplunger to expose the cleansing swab for use on the body.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,330,075 is directed to a food condiment dispenser fordispensing fluid condiment materials, such as ketchup, mustard andmayonnaise. The dispenser includes a tubular body with a sphericalplunger element connected to a spreader paddle member disposed within atubular body. Upon external manipulation of the tubular body, thespherical plunger and spreader paddle arrangement is urged toward adispenser nozzle for release of condiment filling contained therein. Thesanitary spreader paddle simultaneously protrudes from within thetubular body as condiment filling is being evacuated. As a result, theuser may evacuate the entire volume of condiment filling within thedispenser as well as spread the deposited condiment filling on a foodarticle to be eaten.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,957,226 is directed to an automatic food dispensingmethod, apparatus and utensil primarily for use in fast foodrestaurants, bakeries, and the like. The method and apparatus comprise apumping system from a supply through a pump in a controlled amount witha reverse action of the pump after the appropriate amount has beendispensed in order to avoid it dripping. Other drip proof arrangements,such as valving are also utilized optionally. The utensil comprises ahandle attached to a container and spreading utensil such as a spoon,ladle, or the like, wherein predetermined portions of a food orsubstance used in a food may be dispensed either continually or aspredetermined quantities. The device consists of a spoon or otherappropriately shaped utensil attached to a hollow handle whichterminates in a non-interfering connection with the interior of theutensil at one end and terminates at the other end in a connection to afood supply source.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,153,238 is directed to a packaged cheese productcomprising a hermetically sealed container, preferably a pouch, made outof flexible material; a decorator tip or adaptor therefore inside thecontainer, a cheese product inside the container and a cap for closingthe decorator tip when the pouch is partially emptied. The cheeseproduct can be extruded after cuffing the corner off of the pouch andseating the decorator tip in the resulting opening. Cheese in decorativeshapes can then be easily applied as a garnish on food items and thepouch can then be re-closed by capping the decorator tip. The cappreferably has a bulb member that fits inside the decorator tip and askirt member that fits around the outside petals of the preferreddecorator tip.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,844,917 is directed to a cake frosting technique andassembly including a disposable frosting bag for home or commercial useto render the frosting or decorating of cakes or other pastries moreconvenient and expeditious by the complete elimination of the need forexpensive and messy heretofore-used large commercial squeeze bags, ormanually whipped and spread frosting, or expensive aerosols. Theinvention contemplates the ready coloring or tinting of the frosting toany desired hue within a wide range with any particular color andfurther contemplates the imparting of any desired flavoring to thefrosting by the separate and conveniently associated provision of theaforesaid disposable bag containing a neutral or white frosting alongwith a plurality of separate color tint tubes and a plurality ofseparate flavor taste tubes, whose contents are to be admixedrespectively with the base frosting material to achieve a desired blendfor the ultimate decorative and taste effects contemplated.

U.S. Patent Publication No. 2002/0000441 discloses an aperture formingstructure, which when attached to or integrally formed in dispenserpackages for flowable substances allows reclosure and single or multipleuses. The aperture forming structure includes a breakaway tip member ofthermoformable plastic. The break away tip includes a hollow protrusionfrom a surface. The intersection of the hollow protrusion and thesurface is a fault line. Rupturing of the fault line creates an aperturefrom which the contents of the dispenser package may exit. A cap may beintegrally formed with the aperture forming structure and detached forprotecting the hollow protrusion or for closing the aperture createdwhen the fault line is ruptured. The aperture forming structure can bemade by heating a relatively stiff substantially flat thermoformablesheet of and then stretching the sheet to create a first and a secondhollow protrusion in a tiered configuration. A rupture line is placed atthe intersection of the first and the second protrusions. The sheet maybe attached to a pouch or containment member formed from a flexiblesheet which contains any flowable substance.

While there have been a number of prior systems directed to foodspreaders, none have adequately addressed the need for ease of use andconvenience. There is a need for a system to easily, quickly andaccurately spread material such as edible substances, being dispensedfrom containers such as squeeze tubes or bottles.

OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to provide a spreader that willallow a user to spread a spreadable food item.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a spreaderhaving a dispensing nozzle associated with the dispenser to dispensesaid material, and a spreader surface associated with the nozzle wherebythe dispenser may be manipulated to cause the spreader surface to spreadmaterial dispensed via the nozzle.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a system inwhich the spreader is flexible and can be viewed in use.

It is a further object to provide a spreader in which the spreader isdome-shaped.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a spreaderwhich has a number of orifices, having different shapes andconfigurations, including dome shapes.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a spreaderwhich includes expandable nipples.

It is yet a further object of the present invention to provide aspreader, including a container, having a base and a lid opposite thebase, the container capable of holding a spreadable food item; adetachable handle mounted on the container; a plunger, adapted to engagethe detachable handle such that when the detachable handle is depressed,the plunger exerts pressure on the spreadable food item in thecontainer; and a dispenser nozzle, mounted on the exterior of thecontainer proximate to the base of the container, in fluid communicationwith the interior of the container such that the spreadable food itemmay be forced through the dispenser nozzle, the dispenser nozzle capableof being in a first position or a second position.

In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, a novelspreader is disclosed. The novel spreader includes a dispensing nozzleassociated with the dispenser to dispense said material, and a spreadersurface associated with the nozzle whereby the dispenser may bemanipulated to cause the spreader surface to spread material dispensedvia the nozzle.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a novelspreader is disclosed. The novel spreader includes a container, having aclosed end and an open end, capable of holding a spreadable food item,and a nozzle, mounted at the open end of the container, and having anopening in fluid communication with the open end of the container suchthat the spreadable food item can flow through the opening of thenozzle.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, a novelspreader/dispenser is disclosed. The novel spreader/dispenser includes acontainer, having a base and a lid opposite the base, the containercapable of holding a spreadable food item; a detachable handle mountedon the container; a plunger, adapted to engage the detachable handlesuch that when the detachable handle is depressed, the plunger exertspressure on the spreadable food item in the container; and a dispensernozzle, mounted on the exterior of the container proximate to the baseof the container, in fluid communication with the interior of thecontainer such that the spreadable food item may be forced through thedispenser nozzle, the dispenser nozzle capable of being in a firstposition or a second position. The nozzles of the present invention canbe used to spread a large variety of items in a variety of formats.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description ofa preferred embodiment of the present invention will be betterunderstood when read with reference to the appended drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a side elevation of a spreader in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective top plan view of the FIG. 1 spreader;

FIG. 3 is a front elevation of a spreader dispensing opening;

FIG. 4 is a view like FIG. 2 but showing a spreader flexible dispensingnozzle;

FIG. 4 a is a spreader flexible dispensing nozzle having a wavy texture;

FIG. 5 is a side elevation of a spreader nozzle;

FIG. 6 is a top plan view of a spreader cap;

FIG. 7 is a view of an entrance at the inlet end of a spreader as inFIG. 5;

FIG. 8 is like FIG. 7, showing a different entrance configuration;

FIG. 9 is a side elevation showing the end of a container to which aspreader cap attaches;

FIG. 10 is a frontal view of the FIG. 9 container end;

FIG. 11 is a side elevation showing a spreader or narrowedconfiguration;

FIG. 12 is a side elevation of the discharge end of a container to whichthe FIG. 11 spreader attaches;

FIG. 13 is a top plan view of a spreader discharge end, with a serratededge;

FIG. 14 is a view like FIG. 13 showing a nozzle discharge end withserrated edge;

FIG. 15 is a side elevation showing a nozzle with a retracted movablespreader, and control;

FIG. 16 is a view like FIG. 15, showing the movable spreader in extendedposition;

FIG. 17 is like FIG. 15 but showing the movable retractable spreader atthe underside of the nozzle;

FIG. 18 is a top plan view of a nozzle with an associated retractableand extendable spreader;

FIG. 19 shows a modified nozzle and spreader;

FIG. 19 a shows the FIG. 19 spreader in tilted position, for spreadinguse;

FIG. 20 shows a curved flap or blade;

FIG. 21 a is a side elevation of an alternate embodiment of a spreaderoutfitted with a knife nozzle in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 21 b is a side elevation of an alternate embodiment of a spreaderoutfitted with a spatula nozzle in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 22 a is a front elevation view of an alternate embodiment of aspreader/dispenser in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 22 b is a partial front elevation view of the spreader/dispenser ofFIG. 22 a in an alternate configuration;

FIG. 23 is an exploded view of an alternate embodiment of a spreader andnozzle in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 24 is a front elevation view of an alternative embodiment of aspreader with nozzle and handle in accordance with the presentinvention; and

FIG. 25 is a front elevation view of the spreader of FIG. 24 shown witha cap for the nozzle.

FIG. 26 is a further alternative embodiment of a nozzle.

FIG. 27 is still yet a further embodiment of the nozzle of the presentinvention.

FIGS. 28 a-28 b are another embodiment of the nozzle spreader of thepresent invention.

FIGS. 29 and 29 b is another embodiment of the nozzle spreader of thepresent invention.

FIG. 30 is another embodiment of the nozzle spreader of the presentinvention.

FIGS. 31 and 31 a are another embodiment of the nozzle spreader of thepresent invention.

FIGS. 32 a-32 c is yet another embodiment of the present invention whichincludes a dome-shaped configuration.

FIGS. 33 a and 33 b illustrate the slit openings of the presentinvention.

FIGS. 34 a-34 b illustrate yet another alternative embodiment in whichthe dome-shape application is inserted into the throat of the bottle.

FIGS. 35 a-35 e are perspective views of caps which are over the dome ofthe present invention.

FIGS. 36 a and 36 b illustrate another embodiment of a flange-shapeddome closure system for use in the present invention.

FIGS. 37 a through 37f illustrate a dial-type dome applicator/spreaderin accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 38 illustrates a dome having a plurality of orifices havingdifferent sizes.

FIG. 39 illustrates an embodiment in which the dome is pyramid sloped.

FIG. 40 illustrates an alternative nozzle embodiment of the presentinvention having a dome-shaped applicator.

FIG. 41 illustrates alternative orifice embodiments.

FIG. 42 illustrates a nipple-based embodiment for use in the preferredembodiment.

FIG. 43 are views of nipple embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 44 is an embodiment of the invention in which the orifices areangled.

FIGS. 45 a and 45 b illustrate another dial-type embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer tothe same components across the several views and in particular to FIGS.1 and 2, there is shown a spreader 10. The spreader 10 containsdispensable, flowable food material such as peanut butter, jelly orother such edibles. When the container is squeezed, the material flowsthrough a nozzle 11 which tapers toward an outlet 12 which is elongatedlaterally, to provide a dispensed layer 13 of material of thickness 14substantially less than its width 15. A flexible spreader 17 in the formof a flap or blade, or spatula, is provided at the nozzle exit, to facethe layer 13 exiting from the nozzle, whereby the user can manipulatethe spreader, and its undersurface, via container manipulation, tofurther spread or shape the dispensed layer 13. The flap or blade may bestiff or sufficiently flexible to shape the layer 13. Note its laterallength 19 is substantially greater than its width. The tip of the nozzleor blade should be flexible The nozzle 11 may be stiff or may beflexible as in FIG. 4 to assist flexing of the spreader during containermanipulation to cause the spreader to shape the layer 13 deposited on asurface 21 or spread it only after it is dispensed. The latter may be afood surface such as on bread, or other substances. FIG. 3 shows thenozzle outlet 22, which has lateral width 22 a substantially greaterthan its thickness 22 b. The nozzle may be a cap on the container, ormay be integral with the container. A snap-on or threaded fitting 24connects the nozzle to the container, in FIG. 4. As shown in FIG. 4 a,the extruded product can have a wavy texture.

FIGS. 5 and 6 show a nozzle 32, tapering toward a narrowed exit 33 witha spreader flap or blade 34 overhanging that exit. The blade 34 ispreferably flexible. FIG. 6 shows a cap 190 that receives the nozzlewith snap-ring retention at 188 in a cap recess 188 a of nozzle end 32a. Cap inner wall 189 forms a recess to receive the nozzle. A plug 192on the cap plugs outlet 33. FIG. 7 shows the exit 33 as laterally,elongated with narrowed width or height. The nozzle entrance is seen at34, in FIG. 8. FIG. 9 shows dispenser threads 36 to which the nozzle maythreadably or otherwise attach. FIG. 10 shows in frontal view theannular end of the thread 36. See end opening 10 a.

FIG. 11 shows a flexible nozzle 40 that tapers toward an outlet 41, suchas an elongated slit. The nozzle tip 40 a serves as a spreader andpreferably is positioned so that it can be seen when in use. The nozzlehas a fitting 43 that threadably attaches to dispenser threads 44, asseen in FIG. 12. Nozzle may alternatively be positioned via a snap andrelease mechanism.

FIG. 13 shows a spreader flap 46 that has a laterally elongated serratededge 47 to engage the dispensed layer 48 being dispensed. As a result,the layer 48 has an attractive striated appearance. The nozzle can bewaved laterally back and forth to produce wavy elongated striations onthe dispensed layer surface. FIG. 14 shows similar serrations 50 on theend of a nozzle 40 b. A flap 51 can be attached to the nozzle to overliethe serrations, or part of same.

In FIG. 15, the flap or blade 60 is carried for adjustable movement, asby a carrier or adjuster 61 on the nozzle. A finger engagable protrusion61 a on the carrier is manipulated to move or slide the blade andcarrier toward or away from the nozzle exit 41 a, thereby to adjust theexposure of the blade to the dispensed material, to provide additionalflexibility of use of the blade. Grooving 63 in the nozzle in the formof a threaded cap 63 a, guides the adjuster. FIG. 16 shows the blade inextended forward position. The dispensing nozzle cavity appears at 64.FIG. 18 is a top plan view of the FIG. 16 adjuster. stature 17 shows theadjuster at the bottom side of the nozzle 93, having an exit 93 a andpusher. The option of depositing the layer 113 without interference withthe spreader flap or blade, is preserved.

In FIG. 19 a spreader 110 blade or flap 110 a carried at 111 by, and maybe fixedly or releasably attached to or integral with, a nozzle 112. Seebond zone at 111. The spreader and nozzle are shown being moved to theright. See arrow 125, and a layer of dispensable material 113 isdeposited on substrate 126, via bore 112 a of the nozzle. Material 113is typically edible, and may consist, for example, of peanut butter,butter, frosting, mayonnaise, jam, jelly, soft cheese, or other edibles.

In FIG. 19, the spreader 110 as supported is angled, relative to thenozzle or its bore, so that the spreader flap terminal 11 a issufficiently offset from the nozzle outlet 112 a by a sufficientdistance, that the terminal tip 110 a does not engage the top 113 a ofthe deposited layer 113, as during depositing of the layer. Terminal 110a may consist of an elastomer such as rubber. Outlet 112 a may belaterally elongated as in FIG. 7.

In FIG. 19 a the nozzle is now further tilted, as at angle a, so thatthe spreader blade terminal tip 110 a engages the surface of the layer113, for spreading purposes. Terminal 110 a is shown as arcuately flexednear the tip, to smoothly engage and spreadably deform surface 113 a, asthe nozzle is moved to the right, relative to 113. Note that thespreader body at 110 c upwardly of terminal 110 a is thickened so as notto flex, and so as to positively position the terminal 110 a as itaccurately wipes along surface 113 a. Terminal 110 a may or may not beflexible, but is preferably arcuately flexible to smooth and spreadsurface 113 a, as the nozzle and supply container are manipulated.

Body 110 c tapers toward the tip or terminal. This construction, asshown, lends itself to ease of cleaning of interior surfaces 128,129,and 130, as well as cleaning of the terminal. Note the greater than 90degrees angularities of adjacent surfaces 128 and 129, and 129 and 130,avoiding small gaps. The spreader terminal at 110 a may have elongatedlateral length, of dimension substantially greater than the nozzledischarge opening dimension, as described above in other FIGURES, forengaging the widened surface area of 113, achieved during spreading.

FIG. 20 shows a curved flap or blade to conform to curvature of anedible, such as a corn cob. See laterally elongated nozzle outlet 22having narrowed width 22 b. A downwardly concave spreader flap or blade17 a is shown as above the outlet 22, and of lateral elongation greaterthan outlet 22 lateral elongation, indicated at 22 a.

FIG. 21 a shows an alternate embodiment of the present invention thatcombines a knife and a spreader 200. The spreader 200 includes acontainer 201, that can hold a spreadable food F, such as peanut butter,butter, cheese, and the like. In a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention, the container 201 is flexible so as to allow a user tosqueeze the spreadable food F. A knife nozzle 210 is attached to an openend of the container 201, and has an opening 220 to allow the spreadablefood F to be transferred from the container 201 to an item such asbread, crackers, and the like. The knife nozzle 210 can then be used tospread the spreadable food F as desired.

FIG. 21 b illustrates another embodiment of the present invention thatcombines a spatula and a spreader 200′. The spreader 200′ includes acontainer 201′, very similar to the container 201 above, that can hold aspreadable food F, such as peanut butter, butter, cheese, and the like.In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the container 201′is flexible so as to allow a user to squeeze the spreadable food F. Aspatula nozzle 210′, which may be flexible, is attached to an open endof the container 201′, and has an opening 220′ to allow the spreadablefood F to be transferred from the container 201′ to an item such asbread, crackers, and the like. The knife nozzle 210′ can then be used tospread the spreadable food F as desired.

Referring now to FIGS. 22 a and 22 b, another embodiment of a spreader300 is illustrated. The spreader 300 includes a container 301, having abase 302 and a lid 303, that can hold a spreadable food F, such aspeanut butter, butter, cheese, and the like. A detachable handle 310 ismounted on the container 301 at an attachment point 312 for transportand storage, to allow the spreader 300 to have less of a profile andtake up less room. A dispenser nozzle 320 is mounted on the exterior ofthe container 301 to allow for the spreadable food in the container tobe pushed out and onto a receiving food, such as bread, crackers and thelike. When the spreader 300 is to be used, the detachable handle 310 isdetached from the attachment point 312 and is mounted at mounting point311, where it comes into engagement with a plunger 315, located in thelid 303. Additionally, the dispenser nozzle 320 may be rotated up ordown, or flipped up in order to facilitate dispensing or storage as thecase may be. When the handle 310 is depressed in the direction of arrow‘P’, then the handle 310 exerts downward pressure on the spreadable foodin the container 301, and forces the spreadable food out of thedispenser nozzle 320, and onto the receiving food. The interior of thedispenser is beveled 313 to facilitate the removal of all material.While this embodiment has be described in the context of longitudinallythrust plunger, it is to be appreciated that other equivalent structurescould fulfill this function. For example the plunger could be thrustdownward by means of a screw activated compression mechanism.

Illustrated in FIG. 23 is another embodiment of a spreader 400. Thespreader 400 includes a container 401 and a nozzle 420. The containerincludes a threaded end 426 and is capable of receiving a bag 410, whichin turn holds a spreadable food such as peanut butter, butter, cheese,frosting, and the like. The bag 410 may be omitted altogether. The bag410 is flexible in a preferred embodiment of the present invention andcan be folded over the threaded end 415 of the container 401. The nozzle420 includes an opening 425 and a threaded end 426 which threadedlyengages the threaded end 426 of the container 401 to secure the nozzle420 to the container 401. Additionally, the bag 410 is then secured intoplace as the overlap portion is secured between the threaded end 426 ofthe nozzle 420 and the threaded end 426 of the container 401.

Referring now to FIGS. 24 and 25, another embodiment of a spreader 500is shown. The spreader 500 includes a container 501, and a wide nozzle520. Disposed within the container 501 is a bag 540 that can hold aspreadable food F, such as peanut butter, butter, cheese, frosting, andthe like. The wide nozzle 520 is mounted at an open end 526 of thecontainer 501, and includes an opening 525. Mounted on the container501, at the opposite end 527 is a handle 510. The handle 510 includes aplunger 515, such that when the handle 510 is depressed in the directionof arrow ‘Q’, the plunger 515 forces the spreadable food containedwithin the bag 540 out through the opening 525 of the wide nozzle 520and onto a receiving food, such as bread, crackers, cake, and the like.Additionally, a cap 530, having a cavity 531 substantially in the shapeof the wide nozzle 520, can be mounted on the container 501 at the widenozzle 520 in order to allow the spreader 500 to be stored standingupright.

FIG. 26 illustrates yet another embodiment of a nozzle in accordancewith the present invention. In this embodiment, a rubber or flexiblenozzle 600 is affixed to a threaded member 610 and extended coaxiallythereto. The rubber/plastic nozzle 600 can function as a spreader.

FIG. 27 is still a further embodiment of nozzles in accordance with thepresent invention. FIG. 27 illustrates a nozzle 700 which either may bestiff or comprise a member expandable in accordion style when pressureis applied.

FIGS. 28 a and 28 b are still yet a further embodiment of a spreader inaccordance with the present invention. In this embodiment, the spreaderis a cylindrical casing 800 with an adjustable spine 802, connected toan adjustment mechanism 804 and nozzle 807 permit the flow of condimentssuch as spread dressing. It is to appreciated that the adjustmentmechanism 804 may comprise a drive crew or other similar device tolongitudinally move the nozzle 807. The nozzle 807 may have holes topermit the flow of material there through. When the adjustmentmechanism, is 804 pulled upward the nozzle 807 pulls upward and permitsthe flow of material. When pressure is applied the nozzle extendsstiffly outward. This embodiment is similar in its operation to a gardennozzle. In a modified embodiment shown in FIG. 28 b, the mechanism canhave two positions, “on” and “off” 806, 808.

FIGS. 29 and 29 a illustrate yet another nozzle spreader embodiment. Inthis embodiment, the nozzle spreader comprises a flat, wide nozzle 900having a plurality of shaped holes 902. The nozzle can have a flip cap904, for example, and may have a cap or closure which has protrusions906 to cover the holes. This embodiment is ideal for salad dressings orthe like. As shown in FIG. 29 a, the bottle can have a threadedattachment 908 and adjuster 910 to adjust the flow of material.

FIG. 30 is a related embodiment to that of FIG. 29. In this embodiment,the nozzle comprises a flat, wide nozzle 1000 that inserts on a wideflange top 1002. The nozzle has a plurality of holes 1004 which may bebeveled outward. The number, shape and position of the holes can bevaried. This embodiment is ideal, for example, for ice cream toppingsand salad dressings and other viscous food products. In a preferredembodiment, this bottle is a unitary structure including the novelflange top.

Finally, FIGS. 31 and 31 a illustrate yet another nozzle embodiment. Inthis embodiment, the nozzle/spreader comprises a wide but narrow slitflange 1100 which is affixed to the bottle or tube 1101. The corners ofthe nozzle can be straight or cornered. This embodiment may include aninternal support or stilt 1102 to prevent the nozzle from collapsing.

In view of the foregoing disclosure, some advantages of the presentinvention can be seen. For example, a novel spreader has been disclosed.The novel spreader easily, quickly and accurately spreads material suchas edible substances, being dispensed from containers such as squeezetubes or bottles.

Referring to FIGS. 32 a to 32 c, alternative embodiments of the spreaderdispenser of this present invention for viscous materials, saladdressings, mustard, ketchup, taco sauce, ice cream toppings, syrups andother semi-liquid and squeezable products. As seen in FIGS. 32 a and 32b, the invention includes a bottle of food product 1202 containing adome-shaped spreader/applicator 1210. The dome-shapedspreader/applicator 1210 has an outer lip 1212 which snaps onto thecontainer neck to hold it secure. The dome-shaped spreader 1210 has aplurality of apertures or orifices 1220 which are position angle outwardso that the dispensed product spreads out evenly when applied. The domeapplication thus functions to spread out the food product in a widearray and with uniformity. The orifices 1220 of the dome 1210 can bestraight (in line) (FIG. 32 c) or may be dispensed over the body of thedome 1225. In one embodiment the dome-shaped spreader 1210 may haveinternal threads 1230, which enables the lid to securely attach to thetop of the bottle by screwing it on, snapping it on, or alternatively byaffixing it by any other mechanism or instrumentality.

Referring to FIGS. 33 a and 33 b, the orifice's dome-shaped spreader1220 may have slits 1229 or a plurality of cross-slits 1231 instead offully open apertures or orifices. It is to be appreciated that the holeswhere the product emerges, can have a plurality of diameters or shapesand any geometric configuration.

Referring to FIGS. 34 a and 34 b, an embodiment is illustrated in whichthe dome-shaped spreader/applicator 1210 is placed within the inside lipof the bottle 1240. The spreader/applicator is held in place by a numberof mechanisms, including threads or snaps. The dome in this embodimentfits proximate to the bottle top and has an annular serrated ridge 1354which fits on the inside of the bottle. The dome can also be screwedinto the bottle or secured using a variety of mechanical attachmentsystems.

FIGS. 35 a-35 e illustrate caps 1300 which fit over the dome-shapedspreader. The present invention displays a number of cap embodiments. Asshown in FIG. 35 a, a first cap embodiment comprises a dome-shapednozzle cap which is attached by a living hinge 1318. It can also beseparate from the bottle. As shown in FIG. 35 e, the cap can comprise amale closure with matching prongs 1323 which cover over the orifices.This prevents clogging of the holes by dried product.

FIGS. 36 a to 36 c illustrate an embodiment of the dome-shaped nozzleapplicator 1360 which corresponds to the wide flange embodiment of FIG.30. Here the oval-shaped applicator 1360 is dome-shaped and acorresponding cap is dome-shaped and is designed to fit on the bottle.The dome can fit inside or outside of the bottle as shown in FIGURES.Alternatively, the dome-shaped applicator 1360 can have slits, crossesor other aperture shapes 1362 as shown in FIG. 36 c.

FIGS. 37(a)-(f) illustrates yet a further embodiment of the presentinvention. In this embodiment the dome-shaped applicator has a rotatingdial cover 1372 which permits the apertures or orifices 1220 to beselectively opened and closed. By rotating the dial in one direction theorifices are open and product can flow. When rotated in the otherdirection the orifices 1220 are closed. The orifices can have any shape,size or configuration.

FIG. 38 illustrates a dome having a plurality of orifices havingdifferent shapes, sizes and orientation. The different sized orifices1220 allow the passage of different sized chunks or pieces (e.g.“Thousand Island” salad dressing).

FIG. 39 illustrates yet another embodiment of the invention in which theapplicator has the shape of a flattened, four sided pyramid 1380 insteadof a curved shape. Each side 1382 has a plurality of orifices 1384. Itis to be noted that the pyramid embodiment can have more than four sides(e.g. 6,8, 10, etc.). The invention also suggests additional embodimentsbesides pyramid shapes.

FIG. 40 is an embodiment which corresponds with the nozzle embodiment ofFIG. 28. In this embodiment, the dome-shaped applicator is affixed tothe end of the cylindrical nozzle casing and permits product to flowthrough the orifices 1220.

Referring to FIGS. 41 a to 41 c, alternative orifice configurations areshown. The orifices can be indented 1390 into the bottle. They can alsoface or protrude outward 1394. They can be contiguous with the dome1396. The strength and pliability of the plastic, impacts the types offood to be used and the amount of pressure that needs to be applied.

Referring now to FIGS. 42 a and 42 b, a still further embodiment isshown and described. This embodiment comprises an applicator with aplurality of nipple openings 1400. The embodiment comprises a pluralityof flexible nipple inserts 1410. The flexible nipple inserts 1410 areindented inwardly 1420 into the bottle and they are forced outwardly1425 when the product is squeezed out.

FIGS. 43 a to 43 e shows a number of dome-shaped embodiments whichillustrate the use of nipples. The nipples are shown as having a crossor X-shaped orifices 1500 as well as slits 1510. The nipple embodimentcan be utilized with any of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 31.

FIG. 44 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention in which theorifices are angled 1520. This embodiment permits product to bedispensed in a wide variety of directions.

Finally, FIGS. 45 a and 45 b illustrate another embodiment in which theapplicator 1600 has two sets of orifices. A four-holed dial 1610 canthen be rotationally affixed over the applicator 1620. When the dial isturned in a first direction, the large orifices 1630 align with thedial. When turned in a second direction, the small orifices 1635 align.A third position closes the orifices. This embodiment facilitates twolevels of product application flow.

While the preferred embodiment of the present invention has beendescribed and illustrated, modifications may be made by one of ordinaryskill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of theinvention as defined in the appended claims. For example, in a preferredembodiment of the present invention, the bags 410 and 540 may bepolybags, however, the bags may be of any type known to one of ordinaryskill in art. Additionally, the method of securing the nozzles to thecontainers has been described and illustrated as being via a threadedengagement. However, a skilled artisan may employ any appropriate meansto attach the nozzles to the containers, such as, but not limited to, asnap connection or molded piece.

In addition, while the invention has been principally described in thecontext of food, it is to be appreciated that the applicator andspreader of the present invention may be applicable to non-foodproducts. Nonexclusive examples include caulks, pastes, glues andbuilding materials and automotive products such as waxes, greases, etc.

1. For use with a hand manipulable flowable, spreadable materialdispenser, the combination comprising: a. a dispensing nozzle associatedwith the dispenser to dispense said material; b. and a spreader surfaceassociated with the nozzle whereby the dispenser may be manipulated tocause the spreader surface to spread material dispensed via the nozzle.2. The combination of claim 1 wherein the spreader surface has the formof a blade or spatula surface attached to the dispenser.
 3. Thecombination of claim 2 wherein the spreader surface is proximate thenozzle.
 4. The combination of claim 1 wherein the spreader has the formof a flap or blade, located at a nozzle outlet from which the materialis dispensed, the flap or blade being flexible.
 5. The combination ofclaim 1 including said dispenser carrying the nozzle, and insertingdispensable edible material in the dispenser to be spread by thespreader.
 6. (canceled)
 7. The combination of claim 1 wherein the nozzlehas a fitting to attach to the dispenser.
 8. The combination of claim 7wherein the fitting comprises threads.
 9. (canceled)
 10. The combinationof claim 1 wherein the nozzle comprises a wide, narrow flange with aslit from which to permit the flow of flowable material.
 11. (canceled)12. (canceled)
 13. (canceled)
 14. The combination of claim 1 wherein thenozzle has an undulated shape to produce a flowable material with a wavytexture.
 15. (canceled)
 16. (canceled)
 17. (canceled)
 18. (canceled) 19.(canceled)
 20. (canceled)
 21. (canceled)
 22. (canceled)
 23. Thecombination of claim 1 wherein the spreader is angled so as not toengage the layered spread material as the material is dispensed throughthe nozzle.
 24. (canceled)
 25. (canceled)
 26. The combination of claim 1including a cap fitting endwise over the nozzle and over the spreadersurface.
 27. The combination of claim 26 wherein the cap has an interiorconfiguration to conform to the nozzle and a nozzle outlet and to thespreader surface.
 28. (canceled)
 29. A spreader, comprising: acontainer, having a closed end and an open end, capable of holding aspreadable food item; and a nozzle, mounted at the open end of thecontainer, and having an opening in fluid communication with the openend of the container such that the spreadable food item can flow throughthe opening of the nozzle.
 30. (canceled)
 31. (canceled)
 32. Thespreader, comprising: a container, having a base and a lid opposite thebase, the container capable of holding a spreadable food item; adetachable handle mounted on the container; a plunger, adapted to engagethe detachable handle such that when the detachable handle is depressed,the plunger exerts pressure on the spreadable food item in thecontainer; and a dispenser nozzle, mounted on the exterior of thecontainer proximate to the base of the container, in fluid communicationwith the interior of the container such that the spreadable food itemmay be forced through the dispenser nozzle.
 33. The spreader of claim31, wherein the detachable handle is mounted on the container along theexterior of the container generally flush with the exterior of thecontainer.
 34. The spreader of claim 32, wherein the detachable handleis mounted on the container at the lid in engagement with the plunger.35. The spreader of claim 32, wherein the dispenser nozzle is in a firstupright position, such as for storage.
 36. The spreader of claim 32,wherein, the dispenser nozzle is in a second position, generallyperpendicular to the container for dispensing the food item.
 37. Aspreader, comprising: a container; a bag, disposed within the containerfor holding a food item; and a nozzle, mounted at an open end of thecontainer.
 38. The spreader of claim 37, further comprising a threadedend disposed at the open end of the container.
 39. The spreader of claim37, wherein the nozzle further comprises a thread for engaging thethreaded end of the container. 40-63. (canceled)